Light and laser therapy for acne: sham or science? facts and controversies

Clin Dermatol. 2010 Jan-Feb;28(1):31-3. doi: 10.1016/j.clindermatol.2009.04.002.

Abstract

It has long been known that light is helpful in acne. Teens recognize that summer sun diminishes pimples, and wise pharmaceutical companies (which is limiting) know that a drug trial ending in sunny months will have an elevated placebo response.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Acne Vulgaris / epidemiology
  • Acne Vulgaris / prevention & control
  • Acne Vulgaris / therapy*
  • Dermatology / organization & administration
  • Evidence-Based Medicine
  • Humans
  • Indocyanine Green / therapeutic use
  • Laser Therapy / methods*
  • Laser Therapy / statistics & numerical data
  • Photochemotherapy / methods*
  • Photochemotherapy / statistics & numerical data
  • Placebo Effect
  • Practice Patterns, Physicians'
  • Randomized Controlled Trials as Topic
  • Research Design
  • Treatment Outcome
  • Young Adult

Substances

  • Indocyanine Green